Discover how to create the most delicious chicken avocado sandwich that’s both satisfying and nutritious. This recipe combines tender chicken with creamy avocado for a meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The first time I bit into a perfectly crafted chicken avocado sandwich, I knew I had discovered something special. The combination of juicy, seasoned chicken breast against the buttery richness of ripe avocado created a flavor symphony that was both satisfying and nourishing. What started as a quick lunch experiment in my kitchen has evolved into what I believe is the perfect healthy chicken avocado sandwich.
Beyond just tasting incredible, this sandwich packs a serious nutritional punch. Chicken provides lean protein essential for muscle repair and growth, while avocado delivers heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and nearly 20 vitamins and minerals. Together, they create a meal that keeps you energized throughout your day.
What makes this particular recipe stand out is the balance of textures and flavors. I’ve perfected a quick marinade that infuses the chicken with just the right amount of seasoning, while a special avocado spread elevates this sandwich far beyond the basic versions you might find elsewhere. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying lunch, a quick dinner, or a nutritious meal prep option, this grilled chicken avocado sandwich delivers on all fronts.
Ingredients

For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Avocado Spread:
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 4 slices of sourdough bread (or whole grain for a healthier option)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- 1 cup fresh arugula or spinach
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
Chef’s Tip: Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure but aren’t mushy. For the best flavor, choose ones that are dark but not overly soft.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound to an even thickness of about ½ inch using a meat mallet or heavy pan. This ensures even cooking.
- Add chicken to the marinade, turning to coat completely. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for more flavor).
Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, you can skip the marinating step and simply season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika before cooking, but the extra time yields much more flavorful results.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken

- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
- Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off, and place on the hot grill pan.
- Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is no longer pink inside.
- Transfer to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing across the grain. This resting period keeps the juices inside the meat.
Step 3: Prepare the Avocado Spread

- Cut avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a medium bowl.
- Add lime juice, cilantro, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Mash with a fork until you reach your desired consistency – I prefer to leave some small chunks for texture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich

- Toast the bread slices until golden brown.
- Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on one side of each piece of bread.
- On two of the bread slices, generously spread the avocado mixture.
- Layer on the sliced chicken, then add tomato slices, red onion, and greens.
- Top with the remaining bread slices, mayo side down.
- Cut diagonally and serve immediately.
Recipe Card
Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
---|---|---|---|
15 minutes | 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 2 sandwiches |
Calories: 580 per sandwich Protein: 35g Carbs: 42g Fat: 28g (mostly healthy fats from avocado)
Variations and Customizations
Spicy Chicken Avocado Sandwich
Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the chicken marinade and include thinly sliced jalapeños in your sandwich build. You can also mix 1 teaspoon of chipotle paste into the avocado spread for a smoky heat.
Mediterranean Twist
Substitute the cilantro in the avocado spread with fresh basil, add sun-dried tomatoes, and use a slice of provolone cheese. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before closing the sandwich.
Vegetarian Option
Replace chicken with grilled halloumi cheese or thick-cut grilled portobello mushrooms marinated in the same seasoning. The meaty texture of portobellos pairs wonderfully with avocado.
Low-Carb Version
Skip the bread and wrap all ingredients in large lettuce leaves for a refreshing, carb-conscious alternative. This works great with butter lettuce or romaine hearts.
Serving Suggestions
This grilled chicken avocado sandwich pairs perfectly with:

- A light garden salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette
- Sweet potato fries for a healthier alternative to regular fries
- A cup of roasted tomato soup for a comforting meal
- Fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast
For a complete meal that’s sure to impress guests, serve with a side of homemade coleslaw and an iced tea garnished with fresh mint.
Why This Recipe Works
The success of this chicken avocado sandwich lies in the science of complementary flavors and textures. The protein-rich chicken provides a hearty base, while the avocado’s healthy fats create a creamy counterpoint. The acid from the lime juice in the avocado spread not only enhances flavor but also prevents oxidation, keeping your spread vibrant green longer.
Toasting the bread creates a barrier that prevents it from becoming soggy from the moisture-rich ingredients. Additionally, the rest period after cooking the chicken allows the proteins to relax and reabsorb juices, resulting in meat that’s moist and tender rather than dry.
Nutritional Information
A typical chicken avocado sandwich contains approximately 580 calories, with the following macronutrient breakdown:
- Protein: 35g (mainly from the chicken)
- Carbohydrates: 42g (from the bread)
- Fat: 28g (primarily heart-healthy monounsaturated fats from the avocado)
- Fiber: 9g (from the avocado and vegetables)
Chicken avocado sandwich calories can vary based on the bread type and any additional toppings. For a lower-calorie version, use whole grain bread, skip the bacon, and substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise, which can bring the total down to about 450 calories.

chicken avocado sandwich
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Avocado Spread:
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 small garlic clove minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 4 slices of sourdough bread or whole grain for a healthier option
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter version
- 1 cup fresh arugula or spinach
- 1 medium tomato sliced
- ½ red onion thinly sliced
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound to an even thickness of about ½ inch using a meat mallet or heavy pan. This ensures even cooking.
- Add chicken to the marinade, turning to coat completely. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for more flavor).
Pro Tip:
- If you’re short on time, you can skip the marinating step and simply season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika before cooking, but the extra time yields much more flavorful results.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
- Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off, and place on the hot grill pan.
- Cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is no longer pink inside.
- Transfer to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing across the grain. This resting period keeps the juices inside the meat.
Step 3: Prepare the Avocado Spread
- Cut avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a medium bowl.
- Add lime juice, cilantro, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Mash with a fork until you reach your desired consistency – I prefer to leave some small chunks for texture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich
- Toast the bread slices until golden brown.
- Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on one side of each piece of bread.
- On two of the bread slices, generously spread the avocado mixture.
- Layer on the sliced chicken, then add tomato slices, red onion, and greens.
- Top with the remaining bread slices, mayo side down.
- Cut diagonally and serve immediately.
Notes
- Calories: 580 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 28g (mostly healthy fats from avocado)
- Fiber: 9g
- Sodium: Varies based on ingredients
Final Thoughts
Creating the perfect healthy chicken avocado sandwich is about balancing flavors, textures, and nutritional components. This recipe gives you a solid foundation, but don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying lunch option or a quick dinner solution, this versatile sandwich delivers both nutrition and incredible flavor.
I’d love to hear how your sandwich turns out! Leave a comment below, rate this recipe, and don’t forget to share your creation on social media using #UltimateChickenAvocado.
Looking for more healthy lunch ideas? Check out our Protein-Packed Lunch Recipes for other satisfying options to keep you energized throughout the day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chicken avocado sandwich ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, I recommend making the avocado spread fresh, as it tends to brown even with lime juice. If you must prepare in advance, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the avocado spread to minimize air exposure, and assemble the sandwich just before eating.
What’s the best bread to use for a chicken avocado sandwich?
Sourdough provides a nice tang that complements the creamy avocado, while whole grain offers more nutrition and fiber. For the best structure, choose a bread that’s sturdy enough to hold the fillings without getting soggy quickly. Ciabatta and artisan rolls also work wonderfully.
How do I pick the perfect avocado?
Look for avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure but aren’t mushy. The color should be dark but not overly black. If you need to ripen avocados quickly, place them in a paper bag with a banana or apple for 1-2 days.
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even quicker to prepare. Simply remove the skin, shred or slice the breast meat, and warm it slightly before using.
How can I make my chicken avocado sandwich healthier?
Use whole grain bread, skip the bacon, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise, and add extra vegetables like cucumber, bell peppers, or microgreens. You can also use less avocado if you’re watching fat intake, though remember these are healthy fats.